No Problem. But if you don't have "two left hands" as we say in Germany
![Very Happy :D](./images/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif)
, it's no issue to open the keys. The original normal key simply pops open with a blade inserted between housing and web, the remote key has two screws, so no destructive measures needed. I'll get some pictures for you later.
Remarks:
1) The "new generic oem key" needs to be ordered at BMW specifically for your vehicle. Otherwise the transponder is meaningless. So "generic" is the wrong term, just to be clear. Guess you mean "non-remote". Just to be sure we're on the same page.
2) The button-part can be changed, but is half molded into the housing on the ebay key. It is some effort to remove it with a sharp blade without damaging the structure. Check the ebay key first. Well adjusted, it is not too bad. Adjusted means, the electronics inside must be shimmed (put something underneath, e.g. pieces of soft, self-sticking window seal) to get the electric buttons closer to the housing buttons, so that a light push is sufficient. With no shimming the buttons have to be pressed quite strong. So you can vary and test until you are fine. When the buttons are too sensitive, the car will lock and unlock permanently with the key in your pocket
3) In any case, I would not reuse the worn-out buttons of the old key. You can buy
new buttons on ebay which are of soft rubber. Again, they are not 100% oem, but close. Instead of the light symbol, they have a trunk symbol. And as they are replacements, they are not partially molded with the housing any more, but a bit more "loose" at the borders. It's not a complete sealing any more.
I will take pictures, since I have both modified and as-is ebay keys.
Whatever option you chose, it will not be 100% oem, but in my opinion an acceptable solution given the BMW remotes are no more available.
Let me know any further questions. And you can send me all the stuff if you want. Just be aware that I do it for free, thus no guarantee, always danger of scratches when removing the ebay key buttons part etc...
Best regards,
Steffen